Catholic college withdraws invitation to Planned Parenthood citing Church teaching

, Sep 12, 2005 / 12:00 am (CNA).- A Catholic college in Montana withdrew an invitation to Planned Parenthood on attending a symposium on life issues last week. Carroll College said the pro-abortion views of the organization conflict with Catholic Church teaching.
The three-day conference, Sept. 15-17, entitled "Science at the Edge of Humanity” will address end-of-life and beginning-of-life issues.

"Planned Parenthood's stance on certain issues, including abortion and reproductive rights, violate Carroll College's mission as a Diocesan Catholic college," College president Tom Trebon told Helena Independent Record. Last week, he called Sarah Fredrickson of Planned Parenthood of Montana and told her she was no longer welcome at the symposium.

"I believe the presence of a representative of Planned Parenthood on a panel at a public gathering on campus would violate the college's mission, mission statement, and commitment to Catholic values and ideals," he continued.

Trebon reportedly discussed the issue with his staff, board members, and various members of the community before making a final decision.

In an effort to maintain balance on the panels, the college also asked Eric Schiedermayer of the Montana Catholic Conference not to attend.

Planned Parenthood said it was disappointed with the decision “as a health-care group.”